A deeply disturbing case from Florida has shocked the community after a young woman was accused of allowing her newborn baby to drown in a toilet shortly after giving birth.
Authorities say the woman then continued her day normally, even performing in a college theatre production before later burying the infant in her backyard. The tragic incident has sparked outrage and renewed discussions about safe surrender laws designed to protect newborns.
Florida Woman Accused of Letting Newborn Drown
A 20-year-old Florida woman, Anne Mae Demegillo, has been arrested and charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child.
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the case came to light early Friday morning when deputies responded to a welfare check around 4 a.m. The call was made after someone contacted emergency services saying Demegillo had sent messages claiming she had unexpectedly given birth at home.
The caller reportedly told police that the baby had been born alive and crying but that something had happened to the infant afterward.
Deputies Respond to Emergency Call
When deputies arrived at the residence, they spoke with Demegillo about what had happened.
She told officers that she did not realise she was pregnant and suddenly started experiencing severe abdominal pain around 3 a.m.
According to her statement, she went to the bathroom and delivered the baby in the toilet.
Demegillo allegedly told officers that the baby was already dead. However, investigators later determined that the infant had been born alive.
Police believe the newborn girl drowned in the toilet while Demegillo watched and did nothing to help.
Baby Hidden in Bag After Birth
Authorities say Demegillo placed the baby’s body in a duffel bag and hid it inside a closet after the incident.
Instead of calling emergency services or seeking medical help, investigators say she left the house and continued with her day.
Later that same day, Demegillo reportedly travelled to a theatre in New Smyrna Beach where she performed in a college production of the musical “Anything Goes.”
According to police, she played the character “Virtue” in the stage show.
Infant Later Buried in Backyard
After returning home from the performance, authorities say Demegillo took the infant from the bag.
Police allege that she wrapped the baby in a blanket and buried the body in the backyard.
Investigators said the burial site was only about 4 to 5 inches deep.
Officials also noted that at no point did she contact emergency services or attempt to seek help for the newborn.
Investigators Describe Suspect’s Behavior
During a press conference, Flagler County Chief Deputy Joseph Barile spoke about the case and the suspect’s behaviour during questioning.
He described Demegillo as appearing unusually calm while speaking with investigators.
Barile said he personally watched part of the interview and did not observe signs of remorse.
Authorities also shared details about the baby girl, stating that she weighed about 3 pounds and 6 ounces and was approximately 18 inches long.
Officials Remind Public About Safe Haven Laws
Following the arrest, Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly released a statement expressing sadness about the case and reminding the public about safe surrender options available in Florida.
Under Florida’s Safe Haven law, a parent can legally surrender a newborn at certain locations without facing criminal charges.
These locations include:
- Hospitals
- Fire stations
- Law enforcement agencies
Officials say the law is designed to give parents a safe alternative if they feel unable to care for a newborn child.
Sheriff Staly emphasized that using these safe surrender options could prevent tragedies like this.
Community Reacts to Tragic Case
Authorities described the incident as heartbreaking for both the community and the investigators involved.
Cases involving newborns are often emotionally difficult for law enforcement officers, medical personnel, and community members.
Officials also expressed hope that raising awareness about Safe Haven laws will encourage people to seek help instead of making harmful decisions in moments of crisis.
